Paneer Kalimirch (Pepper Paneer) Recipe
This delectable North Indian side dish, Paneer Kalimirch, is a perfect blend of soft, succulent paneer (cottage cheese) and a fragrant, spiced black pepper sauce. It’s the ideal dish to complement a variety of main courses, making it a great choice for your dinner table. If you love paneer and pepper, this rich and creamy dish will satisfy your cravings with its smoky flavors and delightful texture. Served alongside Spinach Raita and Tawa Paratha, it will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (cottage cheese) | 250 grams |
| Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole black pepper (grind it) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Oil (for frying and cooking) | As per use |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Cashews | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 4 cloves |
| Fresh ginger (peeled and chopped) | 1 inch piece |
| Black pepper powder | A pinch |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Onion-Cashew Paste
To begin making Paneer Kalimirch, start by making a smooth paste. Place the chopped onion, cashews, garlic, and ginger into a mixer grinder and blend them together until you have a thick, smooth paste. Once done, set the paste aside for later use.
Step 2: Fry the Paneer
Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a griddle or flat pan. Add the paneer cubes and cook them on medium heat until they turn golden brown on both sides. This step gives the paneer a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender. Once done, set the fried paneer aside.
Step 3: Cook the Onion Mixture
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a deep pan or kadhai. Add the onion-cashew paste and sauté it for about 2 minutes. Let the paste cook and release its aroma. After this, add the cream and milk to the pan, stirring well to combine.
Step 4: Add Spices and Simmer
Season the mixture with salt, turmeric powder, and garam masala powder. Mix well and let it cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the creamy sauce. Add a splash of water to the mixture, stir, and cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Paneer
Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient — the paneer! Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the pan. Stir them carefully so they get coated with the creamy, spiced sauce. Let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes so the paneer absorbs the flavors from the sauce. Once the paneer is well-mixed and heated through, turn off the heat.
Step 6: Prepare the Tadka
For an extra burst of flavor, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small tempering pan (tadka pan). Add the chopped garlic cloves and cook them until they turn golden brown and aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Once the garlic is golden, pour the tempering over the cooked paneer mixture.
Step 7: Final Touch
Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper over the dish to add an extra layer of flavor. Give it a final stir to combine everything.
Step 8: Serve
Your delicious Paneer Kalimirch is now ready to be served! Serve it hot with a side of Spinach Raita and Tawa Paratha for a complete meal. This combination will make for a memorable dinner that’s rich in flavors, protein, and textures.
Additional Tips:
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of black pepper used in this recipe. If you prefer a milder version, use less black pepper.
- For a richer flavor, you can also add a dash of fresh cream or a little butter to the sauce while cooking.
- This recipe is easily customizable, so feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Enjoy your Paneer Kalimirch with loved ones! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely be a hit on your dinner table.
